I began writing a personal journal today, just to cover the bits that are either too rubbish or too personal for a blog, when a thought occurred to me. Rather than just travel from point A to point Z via a number of other points in the hope that interesting things may happen a little bit of thought in selecting destinations that are poignant. Places that attract people give a better opportunity for interesting things to happen. I've already posted a couple of prospective places, Aral Sea and the gas crater in Turkmenistan, a couple of good candidates but we need many more. I think that very early on we will stop at the war grave at Vermelles in France where my great-grandfather is buried. He was killed at the battle for Ancre Heights which happened at The Battle of The Somme in 1916.
Following that we have a long journey through Europe to Istanbul and beyond. A little light research is required to find a good route taking in as many places relevant to our family and/or historical sites. Any thoughts or suggestions would be welcomed, just to see if anyone is actually reading this more than anything. I am currently listening to Dom Joly's audiobook, The Dark Tourist and it has provided more than a little inspiration for the trip next year. If you get a chance please read/listen to this book he has a fantastically perceptive way of seeing not only the grim reality of the locations he visits but also the hope that has sprung from the tragedies.
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